Boils

• Boils Overview
• Causes of Boils
• Symptoms of Boils
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Boils Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medical Treatment
• Next Steps
• Follow-up
• Prevention
• Outlook
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Boils Overview

A boil is a skin infection that starts in a hair follicle or oil gland. At first, the skin turns red in the area of the infection, and a tender lump develops. After four to seven days, the lump starts turning white as pus collects under the skin.

• The most common places for boils to appear are on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders, and buttocks. When one forms on the eyelid, it is called a sty.

• If several boils appear in a group, this is a more serious type of infection called a carbuncle.